Shirley Ann Anderson
November 30, 1935 — May 24, 2024
Shirley Ann Anderson (Bricker) passed away on May 24, 2024, at the age of 88 in West Des Moines, Iowa due to complications of Alzheimer's. She was born on November 30, 1935, in Des Moines, Iowa. Shirley was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who cherished life and her family dearly. She was actively involved in her children's and grandchildren's lives, attending numerous school events and ball games. Shirley was renowned for her exceptional cooking skills and hospitality, especially her Sunday dinners after church. She was kind and generous to all and made everyone feel welcome at her table.
Shirley is survived by her husband, Duane Anderson; children: Dave Anderson (spouse Shelley); grandchildren: Jordan Anderson (Lexi), Jae Wilson (Armani), Ryan Anderson, Taylor Anderson; great-grandchildren: Jae has one on the way who we are looking forward to meeting. She is also survived by her siblings: Delores Ranshaw, Linda Kellar and Marlin Bricker (spouse Ann) and many generations of nieces and nephews. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Effie Bricker, and her son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Kristi Anderson.
Shirley attended Phoenix Elementary, Valley High School, and Drake University. She began her career as an office administrator at Medical Associates in West Des Moines, and subsequently was the beloved building secretary for 25 years at Crossroads and then Westridge Elementary School. She worshipped at West Des Moines Open Bible Church. Shirley was an avid Cyclone fan, win or lose, and especially enjoyed watching the games with her son, Steve. She would do anything for her grandchildren and loved to indulge all of their crazy ideas, which brought out her mischievous side. She enjoyed camping with her family and treasured the annual Brickerfest family reunion. Duane and Shirley took their home on wheels to Texas for many years to escape the cold Iowa winters.
The funeral will be held at 10:30 am, Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at West Des Moines Open Bible Church, 1100 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines, Iowa. Visitation will take place from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines, Iowa,
Contributions in memory of Shirley may be made to West Des Moines Open Bible Church. Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway is assisting with the funeral arrangements. Condolences of sympathy may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
May Shirley's memory be a blessing to all who knew her.
Melin
05/28/2024
Duane and family,
My heart goes out to you. Shirley was a wonderful lady, she always had a smile on her face.
She was my favorite Sunday School teacher at WDM Open Bible. She loved Jesus and shared it with so many. She will truely be missed.
Char Vukovich
05/27/2024
As one of the teachers who was so happy to know Shirley at Crossroads Park and Westridge, I was saddened to hear of her passing. She was one of the most beautiful people I have ever met. Besides doing an amazingly excellent job at being a building secretary, she was friendly and caring to all of us. I am praying that God’s peace overwhelms the family in memory of this dear lady.
Judy Coldiron
05/26/2024
When I read about Shirley’s passing I felt sad , but remembered our days working at Medical Associates of West Des Moines. We had so many experiences and chuckles working for Dr. Sternagle and Dr. Van Natta. Shirley will be missed by so many. My sympathy to Duane and the family.
Dee McFadden Townsend
05/25/2024
I'm so sorry to hear about Shirley. Duane, you and the family are in my thoughts. I have known Shirley since school and Campfire Girls. My Mom was our leader and Effie was her assistant. Effie gave me my first home permanent. School mates, graduating from Valley in 1954, and enjoyed her at our class reunions. I now live in Texas (to be near my son), so won't be able to attend the service, but know Duane, you, the family, and especially her siblings will be in my thoughts. Dee